This huge dog became overheated on Alberta Street at Last Thursday on June 27. - Aaron Mesh

With Portland temperatures climbing into the 90s for the third consecutive day, Multnomah County is trying out a program to allow pets in one of its senior cooling centers.

The Hollywood Senior Center at 1820 NE 40th Ave.—open until 8 pm for elderly and disabled people whose homes are dangerously hot—is accepting pets with a call in advance.

"We've heard from seniors that their house is intolerable but they don't want to leave their pet," says county spokeswoman Julie Sullivan-Springhetti. "Really, it's a way that people aren't leaving their pet in the car, or staying at home because they don't want to leave that family member behind."

The Hollywood pet reservation line is 288-8303. The county has created a list of rules:

• A spot must be reserved by calling in advance• There is a weight restriction of 22 pounds• Pets need to arrive in a carrier• If the pet needs medications, they must accompany the pet• Pets need some sort of identification and proof of current vaccinations• Pets will be kept in a separate room where the owners can come and go to visit, but the pets will not be out and about with people (even in their carriers).• All service animals are always accepted at any cooling center